Taronga has its own Animal Ethics Committee whose role is to ensure that the animals involved in any research or teaching are treated humanely, responsibly and justifiably. Taronga is accredited as an Animal Research Establishment by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
As required by legislation, Taronga’s Animal Ethics Committee is made up of a range of individuals from veterinary and scientific fields, animal welfare advocacy and independent contributors to ensure a balanced and fair review of research and teaching involving animals can be conducted.
The Committee issues Animal Research Authorities for researchers to proceed with their work after it has been deemed in keeping with Taronga’s policies, the Animal Research Act 1985, the Animal Research Regulation 2005 and the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.
The Taronga AEC must review and approve all research and teaching activities conducted with animals onsite at locations under Taronga’s management (including establishing breed-for-release recovery programs for threatened species), and research conducted on free-ranging wildlife or animals held in other facilities by Taronga’s employees.
All of our work is underpinned by a deep respect for animals and their welfare. We ensure the wellbeing of animals used in research and teaching by a highly skilled team of animal care staff, including experienced scientists, veterinarians and keepers. All people involved in research with Taronga’s animals must complete mandatory animal welfare training prior to project commencement.
Taronga implements the principle of the three Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) at all stages of animal care to ensure the use of animals is justified, and that any harm to animals is avoided or minimised.
Learn how Taronga upholds dignity and respect for wildlife through ethical encounters, responsible photography and strong animal welfare standards.
Taronga’s two Wildlife Hospitals, at Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo, are responsible for maintaining the health of close to 1,500 wildlife cases every year.
Make a donation to Taronga to help fund wildlife care, research and conservation programs that support animals and healthy ecosystems.
